Facial Attachments - Tight-Fitting Coverings

Most respirators have two main components: the facial attachment and the air purifier or air source. The facial attachments, also known as "respiratory inlet coverings," form the barrier between the user's respiratory tract and an air-purifier or air source. These facial attachments come in two basic categories: tight-fitting coverings and loose-fitting coverings.

Tight-fitting coverings strap onto the user's head. There are three main types of tight-fitting coverings:

• Quarter masks cover the mouth and nose, and the bottom rests between the mouth and the chin. These provide the least protection of all tight-fitting coverings.
• Half masks cover the mouth and nose, and the bottom fits under the chin.
• Full facepiece masks cover the entire face. These provide the most protection of all tight-fitting coverings.

Tight-fitting coverings must form a seal between the facepiece and the user's skin. Facial hair can stop the covering from forming a proper seal. Tight-fitting coverings come with adjustable straps that prevent the seal from breaking when the user turns his or her head. Inside the facepiece is an inhalation valve that allows a one-way flow of clean air into the facepiece. There is also an exhalation valve, which allows exhaled air to leave the facepiece without contaminated air coming back in.

To learn more about Respiratory Protection visit our Cal/OSHA Respiratory Protection Online Training web page.